1987 House Fire Investigation Reopened

On the 20th of September 1987 the remains of Barbara Doyle (20) and her nieces Mary Ellen (8) and Kerrie (3) Byrne were discover at the scene of a fire which happened at Church Lane, Kilcock, Co. Kildare. Barbara had being babysitting at the time of the fire, while the parents of the two girls attended a 21st birthday party in the locality. Between 3am and 4am a fire was reported at the house.

The investigation of the fire remained open since the time of the fire in 1987. The Gardaí have received new evidance in the case and now beleive the fire was intentional. The investigation has been upgraded to a murder investigation.

An incident room at the Leixlip Garda Station has been set up and the Serious Crime Review Team are working with local Detectives.

Speaking today at Leixlip Garda Station Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche said "We are satisfied there are people who will remember this fire and the deaths of Barbara, Mary Ellen, and Kerrie, and who have not yet spoken to Gardaí. We are appealing to any person who has any information to contact Leixlip garda station at 01-6667800 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111. I would further appeal that the privacy of the Byrne and Doyle families is respected at this time.”